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On your medical journey with cardiomyopathy, medical appointments with your cardiologist or other member of the care team are important stepping stones to care for your health. You can make the most of them with a little preparation.

Before the Visit

Think about what goals you might have for the visit and information to discuss with the physician. Make a list of symptoms and all your current medications (yes, even supplements you take), and note down if there have been any changes in your condition since the last visit. Also, review your family history of any heart conditions as far back as your great-grandparents.

You may consider discussing these with a close family member or friend supporting you on your medical journey. It's easy to forget questions you may have planned to ask on the visit, so writing them down in advance can be helpful.

During the Visit

Arrive early if possible, so you can check in and complete any necessary paperwork. Not only will you have less anxiety (which may help your blood pressure), but it will maximize your time with the clinician. Take deep breaths and try to relax.

Be honest with the clinician, even if you think something might not be comfortable to discuss or if it isn't what you think the doctor may want to hear. Leaving out details, minimizing your symptoms, or avoiding talking about poor health habits all undermine the point of your medical visit -- getting care that will help you.

Make sure you understand what the doctor says, asking questions to clarify. Taking notes may help. Ask about treatment options and what any recommended tests or diagnostics will contribute to your care plan.

Your physician can provide information about what to expect with your condition and practical steps you can take, such as daily weight and blood pressure checks or a diet and exercise plan. Find out what changes in your condition should prompt a call to the office or more urgent attention.

After the Visit

Review any actions that need to be taken. Pick up prescriptions, make follow-up care appointments, and schedule tests or imaging.

Contact your care team with any concerning changes in your conditions, or seek urgent medical attention in case of an emergency.

Read previous installments in this series:

Part 1: Understanding Your Diagnosis of Cardiomyopathy

Part 2: What to Expect When Your Doctor Suspects Cardiomyopathy

"Medical Journeys" is a set of clinical resources reviewed by doctors, meant for physicians and other healthcare professionals as well as the patients they serve. Each episode of this 12-part journey through a disease state contains both a physician guide and a downloadable/printable patient resource. "Medical Journeys" chart a path each step of the way for physicians and patients and provide continual resources and support, as the caregiver team navigates the course of a disease.